Plain English Meaning

Staring at one gauge so much that you stop properly checking the others. You end up flying off what one instrument tells you, while missing changes happening elsewhere on the panel.

Full Definition

A common instrument cross-check error in which the pilot fixates on one instrument — most often the attitude indicator — instead of systematically scanning the full panel. The result is that other instruments are under-checked, deviations go unnoticed, and control inputs are made on incomplete information.

Context Anchor

Seen in instrument flying when learning or reviewing the instrument scan, especially during discussion of common cross-check errors.

Derivation

Emphasis comes from an older Greek word meaning to show or give importance to something. Here, it means putting too much importance on one instrument instead of using all the needed instruments together.